TED Radio Hour

Jen Gunter, a physician and author known for her work on women's health, dives into the misconceptions surrounding body care and medical misinformation. She emphasizes the power of education in debunking myths about femininity and reproductive health. Gunter shares personal experiences that highlight the stigma against discussing menstruation and bodily functions. The conversation also critiques gendered language in healthcare and calls for a more transparent dialogue about gut health and emerging medical concerns like long COVID.

Robin Steinberg, a public defender and co-founder of The Bail Project, tackles the injustices of the U.S. bail system. In a compelling discussion, she highlights how nearly half a million individuals are jailed simply for being unable to pay bail. Steinberg shares her innovative rotating bail fund, aiming to help defendants maintain their dignity while facing charges. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for reform, calling for community-driven solutions and a shift towards a more restorative approach to criminal justice.

In this engaging discussion, economist Emily Oster shares her data-driven approach to parenting decisions, particularly during the challenges of COVID-19. Lawyer Priti Krishtel advocates for patent reform, emphasizing how it can make medicines more accessible and affordable. Phillip Atiba Goff highlights the urgent need to address racial bias in policing, reflecting on historical events that shape today's public safety perceptions. Together, they explore innovative solutions to systemic issues in education, healthcare, and law enforcement.

When experiencing grief or hardship, how can we move forward? This hour, writer Nora McInerny shares ideas on navigating the most difficult parts of life... and living life fully in the face of loss.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Amir Nizar Zuabi, a theater director known for his poignant storytelling through puppetry, shares insights on using art to convey the refugee experience. Astrophysicist Erika Hamden discusses her innovative FIREBALL telescope, revealing the emotional journey of cosmic discovery. Kathryn Whitehead, a chemical engineer specializing in mRNA vaccines, emphasizes the importance of precise drug delivery technology. Lastly, Keller Rinaudo, CEO of Zipline, highlights the life-saving potential of drone logistics in medical supply distribution.

Shoham Arad, Director of the TED Fellows Program, shares insights on transforming big ideas into impactful actions. He emphasizes intersectionality and collaboration in fostering change. The discussion features inspiring initiatives, such as empowering waste pickers in Brazil through art and technology. Arad also addresses the urgency of combatting preventable blindness, showcasing innovative solutions for equitable eye care access. Listeners are encouraged to harness creativity and collaboration to make a significant difference in their communities.

Guy Winch, a psychologist and author, shares insights on emotional well-being and burnout, highlighting the need for boundaries in work-life balance. Visual artist Amanda Williams discusses her bold efforts to bring color and vibrancy to neglected urban spaces in Chicago. Biophysicist Andrew Pelling presents innovative plant-based materials that aid in tissue regeneration, while writer Wajahat Ali dives into the societal impacts of declining birth rates and the need for supportive family policies. Together, they offer refreshing perspectives on revitalization in various aspects of life.

Neuroscientists Kimberly Noble, Adriana Galván, Sandrine Thuret, and Lisa Mosconi dive into the fascinating dynamics of brain development across life stages. They explore how socioeconomic factors and early experiences shape children's cognitive growth, emphasizing the urgent need for societal action. The conversation also uncovers the ongoing process of neurogenesis in adulthood and how lifestyle choices influence brain health. Additionally, they address the unique challenges women face during menopause and the importance of supportive interventions for cognitive well-being.

Sandeep Jauhar, a cardiologist and author, discusses the emotional ties between heartbreak and heart health, highlighting how grief can manifest physically. Jeannie Suk Gersen, a Harvard law professor, shares insights on marital challenges and the importance of effective communication. Hui-wen Sato, a pediatric nurse, opens up about navigating grief in her profession, while Knut Ivar Bjørlykhaug reflects on the emotional impact of environmental destruction and the need for hope amidst despair. Together, they explore the multifaceted nature of heartache and healing.

Stacey Abrams, a lawyer and political powerhouse, shares her journey from a high school valedictorian to advocating for marginalized voices in politics. Tracy Edwards, the first woman to lead an all-female sailing crew, recounts her transformative experiences navigating a male-dominated world. Alvin Irby emphasizes fostering a love for reading among Black boys through initiatives like Barbershop Books, while Ash Beckham highlights the challenges of identity and the importance of empathy in LGBTQ advocacy. Together, they explore profound life lessons beyond traditional education.